Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine: A Flavorful Fusion Dish
When it comes to pasta, there are countless options to tantalize your taste buds. One delightful creation that stands out is Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine. This comforting dish combines tender chicken, a luscious creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked linguine, all kissed with a hint of cowboy-inspired flavors. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients You Will Need
To bring this mouthwatering dish to life, gather the following ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces linguine
- Water and salt (for boiling)
Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add the linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a cup of the pasta water, and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a bit more olive oil and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and Worcestershire sauce, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes.
4. Add the Cheese and Seasonings
Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Add the dried Italian herbs, and season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, feel free to add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Combine Everything
Add the cooked linguine and sliced chicken to the creamy sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are well-coated.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Divide the Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine among serving plates. Garnish with fresh parsley and an additional sprinkle of Parmesan if desired. Enjoy this hearty dish with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is more than just a meal; it’s an experience! The fusion of rich, buttery flavors with the smokiness from the paprika and the savory chicken truly embodies a touch of cowboy spirit. Plus, the creamy sauce clinging to each strand of linguine creates a comforting embrace that’s hard to resist. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is a fantastic choice!
Final Thoughts
So, if you’re on the lookout for a new pasta dish that’s both easy to make and packed with delicious flavors, give Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine a try. Your taste buds will thank you, and you might just find yourself becoming a “cowboy” in the kitchen, eager to whip up this delectable dish again and again! Happy cooking!